4 Michigan farms selected to produce electricity for utility using anaerobic digesters

Four Michigan farms have been selected to produce electricity for a utility using biodegradable material in anaerobic digesters.

Jackson-based CMS Energy Corp. announced the plans Tuesday, saying it's a part of an effort to diversify the use of renewable energy by Consumers Energy.

The utility says Beaver Creek Farms in Coopersville, Brook View Dairy in Freeport, Green Meadow Farms in Elsie and Scenic View Dairy in Fennville were selected. They could generate electricity under contracts that collectively provide 2.6 megawatts of capacity.

Consumers Energy says that could power about 2,800 homes. The utility worked with Michigan State University and others to develop the program.

The anaerobic digesters are in addition to other renewable energy sources tapped by the utility, including wind, solar, biomass and hydroelectric dams.